What must the government prove in order to satisfy the rational basis test?

To satisfy the rational basis test, the government must demonstrate that a law or regulation is rationally related to a legitimate governmental interest. This means that there must be a plausible connection between the means chosen and the ends sought. The burden of proof is on the challenger to show that the law is not rationally related to any legitimate interest, making this test relatively deferential to the government. Essentially, as long as the law is not arbitrary or capricious, it is likely to be upheld.